2020 PWSAC Fisheries Updates

Thursday, September 17, 2020

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

The 2020 AFK pink salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 25, and concluded on September 11. PWSAC collected approximately 72% of the 190 million pink salmon egg goal, or an estimated 136.8 million eggs.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

PWSAC collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery in 2020 and 386,709 fish for broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,348,785 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 2,952,022 fish.

The 2020 CCH pink salmon egg take began on Wednesday, August 26, and concluded on September 16. PWSAC collected approximately 65% of the 187 million pink salmon egg goal, or an estimated 121.6 million eggs.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

The 2020 WNH pink salmon egg take began on Friday, August 21, and concluded on September 7. PWSAC collected approximately 67% of the 148 million pink salmon egg goal, or an estimated 99,350,000 eggs.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

PWSAC collected 2,808,064 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock in 2020. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 5,657,553 fish, the 2020 PWSAC pink salmon return totals 8,465,617 fish.

Coho Salmon Update

To date, hatchery staff at WNH have sorted and collected 213 female and 323 male coho salmon for broodstock, which is less than anticipated for the date. The WNH coho salmon broodstock requirement is 1,350 female and 1,350 male coho salmon. Broodstock collection will continue as per standard hatchery operations, with coho salmon egg takes scheduled to take place at WNH between October 19 and November 11. VFDA has agreed to provide PWSAC with coho salmon eggs from its Solomon Gulch Hatchery to mitigate for an anticipated broodstock and associated egg collection shortfall at WNH. PWSAC will continue to work with VFDA and ADF&G on necessary permitting and preparations to accommodate this transfer.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Gulkana Hatchery

The 2020 Gulkana II (GII) sockeye salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 4 and concluded at 86% (1.5 million) complete towards the 1.75 million GII sockeye salmon egg goal. PWSAC is permitted to use eggs collected from the GI run to augment GII shortfalls.

The Gulkana I (GI) sockeye salmon egg take began on Tuesday, September 1. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 21% of the 35 million GI sockeye salmon egg goal. The majority of these eggs have been collected at Paxson thus far, although fish are beginning to arrive and ripen at the Crosswinds Lake remote egg take location, where eggs will be collected until the end of the month.

Monday, September 14, 2020

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

PWSAC collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery in 2020 and 289,319 fish for broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 720,968 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 1,254,395 fish. The 2020 AFK pink salmon return ranks as the second smallest on record since 1979, is 18% of the recent 10-year average (7.2 million) and 22% of the preseason forecast (5.8 million).

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, September 9, PWSAC had collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,348,785 fish, and broodstock escapement of as many as 420,000 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 2,985,313 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 13 was 4,200,000 fish. The 2020 CCH pink salmon return ranks as the fifth smallest on record since 1993, is 37% of the recent 10-year average (8 million) and 71% of the preseason forecast (4.2 million). The 2020 CCH pink salmon egg take began on Wednesday, August 26. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 64% of the 187 million pink salmon egg goal. The low tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on September 13 was 7,500 to 15,000 pink salmon, with another 32,500 fish currently holding within the hatchery’s fishway. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus fish available at CCH following egg takes.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

PWSAC collected 1,431,922 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery in 2020 and 239,478 fish for broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,587,800 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 4,259,200 fish. The 2020 WNH pink salmon return is 52% of the recent 10-year average (8.1 million) and 93% of the preseason forecast (4.6 million).

The 2020 WNH pink salmon egg take began on Friday, August 21, and concluded on September 7. PWSAC collected approximately 67% of the 148 million pink salmon egg goal, or an estimated 99,350,000 eggs.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Sunday, September 13, PWSAC had collected approximately 2,841,355 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 5,657,553 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 8,498,908 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 13 was 14.6 million fish.

Coho Salmon Update

Coho salmon commercial harvests in Coghill District and throughout western Prince William Sound have been less than anticipated to date and are indicative of a poor return to WNH. To date, hatchery staff sorted and collected 59 female and 217 male coho salmon for broodstock, which is less than anticipated for the date. The WNH coho salmon broodstock requirement is 1,350 female and 1,350 male coho salmon. Broodstock collection will continue as per standard hatchery operations, with coho salmon egg takes scheduled to take place at WNH between October 19 and November 11 on most years.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Gulkana Hatchery

Thursday, September 10, 2020

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, September 9, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 720,968 fish, and broodstock escapement of as many as 290,000 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 1,255,076 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 9 was 5,775,824 fish. The 2020 AFK pink salmon return ranks as the second smallest on record since 1979, is 18% of the recent 10-year average (7.2 million) and 22% of the preseason forecast (5.8 million).

The 2020 AFK pink salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 25. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 70% of the 190 million pink salmon egg goal. PWSAC staff estimate as many as 12,000 fish remaining at/near the hatchery. PWSAC expects to conclude its 2020 pink salmon egg collection operations at AFK in the coming days. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus fish available at AFK following egg takes.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

The 2020 CCH pink salmon egg take began on Wednesday, August 26. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 59% of the 187 million pink salmon egg goal. The low tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on September 10 was 30,000 to 40,000 pink salmon, with another 60,000 fish currently holding within the hatchery’s fishway. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus fish available at CCH following egg takes.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, September 9, PWSAC had collected 1,431,922 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,587,800 fish, along with broodstock collection of 239,478 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 4,259,200 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 9 was 4,600,000 fish. The 2020 WNH pink salmon return is 52% of the recent 10-year average (8.1 million) and 93% of the preseason forecast (4.6 million).

The 2020 WNH pink salmon egg take began on Friday, August 21, and concluded on September 7. PWSAC collected approximately 67% of the 148 million pink salmon egg goal, or an estimated 99,350,000 eggs.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Wednesday, September 9, PWSAC had collected approximately 2,842,036 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 5,657,553 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 8,499,589 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 9 was 14,545,686 fish.

Coho Salmon Update

Coho salmon commercial harvests in Coghill District and throughout western Prince William Sound have been less than anticipated to date and are indicative of a poor return to WNH. During the hatchery’s final pink salmon egg take at WNH on September 7, hatchery staff sorted and collected 59 female and 217 male coho salmon for broodstock, which is less than anticipated for the date. Broodstock collection will continue as per standard hatchery operations, with coho salmon egg takes scheduled to take place at WNH between October 19 and November 11 on most years. The WNH coho salmon broodstock requirement is 1,350 female and 1,350 male coho salmon. In anticipation of a potential broodstock shortfall, PWSAC has conferred with VFDA on the feasibility of obtaining eggs from Solomon Gulch Hatchery, and with ADF&G about conducting an egg take at the Mile-18 location (original broodstock source) in Cordova or to conduct an egg take at the remote release location in Cordova (Fleming Spit Pond) to make up the balance of the goal.

Monday, September 07, 2020

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Sunday, September 6, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 720,968 fish, and broodstock escapement of as few as 270,000 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 1,235,076 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 6 was 5,746,463 fish.

The 2020 AFK pink salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 25. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 57.3% of the 190 million pink salmon egg goal. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on September 7 was 30,000 to 40,000 pink salmon. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus fish available at AFK following egg takes. PWSAC expects to complete its 2020 pink salmon egg collection operations at AFK in the coming days.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Sunday, September 6, PWSAC had collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,348,785 fish, and broodstock escapement of as few as 315,000 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 2,880,313 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 6 was 4,152,807 fish.

The 2020 CCH pink salmon egg take began on Wednesday, August 26. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 49% of the 187 million pink salmon egg goal. The high tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on September 6 was 40,000 to 50,000 pink salmon. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus fish available at CCH following egg takes.

In anticipation of an egg collection shortfall at CCH, PWSAC has worked cooperatively with ADF&G to obtain the necessary permitting to conduct remote eggtakes in the vicinity of the hatchery on any available surplus fish not recruiting into the hatchery system. However, both ADF&G and PWSAC aerial surveys conducted over the weekend indicate that the only fish remaining in notable abundance in upper Unakwik Inlet currently reside in the CCH THA, as should be expected for this time of year. PWSAC expects to complete its 2020 pink salmon egg collection operations at CCH in the coming days.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Sunday, September 6, PWSAC had collected 1,431,922 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,587,800 fish, along with broodstock collection of as few as 255,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 4,274,722 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 6 was 4,596,112 fish.

The 2020 WNH pink salmon egg take began on Friday, August 21. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 66.8% of the 148 million pink salmon egg goal. It is anticipated that today, September 7, will be the final day for pink salmon egg takes at WNH, and that the hatchery will not reach its egg collection goal. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus pink salmon available at WNH following egg takes.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Sunday, September 6, PWSAC had collected approximately 2,732,558 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 5,657,553 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 8,390,111 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 6 was 14,495,381 fish.

In total, PWSAC needs just over 1 million pink salmon to complete egg takes assuming a 50% female ratio, and currently PWSAC has acquired as much as 84% of this preseason goal without any expectation for additional run entry at AFK, CCH or WNH. Hatchery egg takes have experienced low female ratios thus far at all three hatcheries, thereby requiring more fish to reach its egg take goals. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus pink salmon available at AFK, CCH or WNH upon completion of its 2020 egg take operations.

Coho Salmon Update

Coho salmon commercial harvests in Coghill District and throughout western Prince William Sound have been less than anticipated to date and are indicative of a poor return to WNH. During today’s pink salmon egg take at WNH, hatchery staff will sort and collect coho salmon broodstock as per standard operations. The WNH coho salmon broodstock requirement is 2,700 fish. If the required broodstock for the coho salmon egg-take goal is not available from returning fish to the hatchery, PWSAC will confer with VFDA on the feasibility of obtaining eggs or confer with ADF&G about conducting an egg take at the Mile-18 location (original broodstock source) in Cordova or conduct an egg take at the remote release location in Cordova (Fleming Spit Pond) to make up the balance of the goal.

Thursday, September 03, 2020

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, September 2, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 720,968 fish, and broodstock escapement of as few as 270,000 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 1,235,076 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 2 was 5,659,947 fish.

The 2020 AFK pink salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 25. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 31.2% of the 190 million pink salmon egg goal. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in AFK hatchery subdistricts for the remainder of the season. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus fish available at AFK following egg takes.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, September 2, PWSAC had collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,348,785 fish, and broodstock escapement of as few as 315,000 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 2,880,313 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 2 was 4,092,414 fish.

The 2020 CCH pink salmon egg take began on Wednesday, August 26. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 30.4% of the 187 million pink salmon egg goal. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in CCH hatchery subdistricts for the remainder of the season. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus fish available at CCH following egg takes.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, September 2, PWSAC had collected 1,431,922 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,587,800 fish, along with broodstock collection of as few as 255,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 4,274,722 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 2 was 4,552,598 fish.

The 2020 WNH pink salmon egg take began on Friday, August 21. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 66.8% of the 148 million pink salmon egg goal. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in WNH hatchery subdistricts for the remainder of the season. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus pink salmon available at WNH following egg takes.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Wednesday, September 2, PWSAC had collected approximately 2,732,558 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 5,657,553 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 8,390,111 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for September 2 was 14,304,959 fish.

Monday, August 31, 2020

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 30, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 720,968 fish, and broodstock escapement of as few as 270,000 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 1,235,076 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 30 was 5,530,559 fish.

The 2020 AFK pink salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 25. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 16.4% of the 190 million pink salmon egg goal. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 31 was 190,000 to 210,000 pink salmon, with no noticeable improvement in recent days. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at AFK is 363,000 pink salmon.

The 2020 AFK Hatchery pink salmon return has performed below forecast, and inadequate hatchery escapement warrants a conservative approach going forward. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in AFK hatchery subdistricts for the remainder of the season. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus fish available at AFK following egg takes.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 30, PWSAC had collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,348,785 fish, and broodstock escapement of as few as 315,000 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 2,880,313 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 30 was 3,990,511 fish.

The 2020 CCH pink salmon egg take began on Wednesday, August 26. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 10.7% of the 187 million pink salmon egg goal. The high tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 30 was 200,000 to 225,000 pink salmon. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at CCH is 357,000 pink salmon.

The 2020 Cannery Creek Hatchery pink salmon return has performed below forecast, and inadequate hatchery escapement warrants a conservative approach going forward. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in CCH hatchery subdistricts for the remainder of the season. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus fish available at CCH following egg takes.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 30, PWSAC had collected 1,431,922 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,587,800 fish, along with broodstock collection of as few as 255,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 4,274,722 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 30 was 4,473,418 fish.

The 2020 WNH pink salmon egg take began on Friday, August 21. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 46.1% of the 148 million pink salmon egg goal. The morning WNH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 30 was as few as 115,000 pink salmon, including fish collected behind the WNH barrier net. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at WNH is 283,000 pink salmon.

As per PWSAC’s permits and shared ancestral broodstock source, AFK pink salmon eggtake shortfalls can be mitigated for through additional egg takes at WNH. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in WNH hatchery subdistricts for the remainder of the season. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus pink salmon available at WNH following egg takes.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Sunday, August 30, PWSAC had collected approximately 2,732,558 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 5,657,553 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 8,390,111 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 30 was 13,994,487 fish.

In total, PWSAC needs just over 1 million pink salmon to complete egg takes assuming a 50% female ratio, and currently PWSAC has acquired as much as 84% of this preseason goal with minimal observed run entry at AFK, CCH and WNH in recent days. Hatchery egg takes have experienced low female ratios thus far at all three hatcheries, thereby requiring more fish to reach its egg take goals. PWSAC does not expect there to be surplus pink salmon available at AFK, CCH or WNH upon completion of its 2020 egg take operations.

Thursday, August 27, 2020

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 26, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 720,963 fish, and broodstock escapement of as few as 270,000 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 1,235,071 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 26 was 5,097,358 fish.

The 2020 AFK pink salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 25. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 3.6% of the 190 million pink salmon egg goal. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 27 was 230,000 to 250,000 pink salmon, with no noticeable improvement in recent days. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at AFK is 363,000 pink salmon.

The 2020 AFK Hatchery pink salmon return is performing well below forecast, and inadequate hatchery escapement warrants a conservative approach going forward. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in AFK hatchery subdistricts until hatchery broodstock is assured.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 26, PWSAC had collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,348,785 fish, and broodstock escapement of as few as 315,000 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 2,880,313 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 26 was 3,854,632 fish.

The 2020 CCH pink salmon egg take began on Wednesday, August 26. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 1.6% of the 187 million pink salmon egg goal. The high tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 26 was 275,000 to 300,000 pink salmon. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at CCH is 357,000 pink salmon.

The 2020 Cannery Creek Hatchery pink salmon return is performing below forecast, and escapement has been slow to build near the hatchery. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in CCH hatchery subdistricts until hatchery broodstock is assured.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 26, PWSAC had collected 1,431,922 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,587,370 fish, along with broodstock collection of as few as 255,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 4,274,292 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 26 was 4,241,812 fish.

The 2020 WNH pink salmon egg take began on Friday, August 21. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 21.4% of the 148 million pink salmon egg goal. The morning WNH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 20 was as few as 180,000 pink salmon, including fish collected behind the WNH barrier net.

As per PWSAC’s permits and shared ancestral broodstock source, AFK pink salmon eggtake shortfalls can be mitigated for through additional egg takes at WNH. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in WNH hatchery subdistricts until hatchery broodstock is assured for both WNH and AFK. PWSAC’s broodstock goal at WNH is 283,000 pink salmon, although it will be working to build additional escapement to mitigate for a broodstock shortfall at AFK.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Wednesday, August 26, PWSAC had collected approximately 2,732,558 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 5,657,118 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 8,389,676 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 26 was 13,193,802 fish.

In total, PWSAC needs just over 1 million pink salmon to complete egg takes, and currently PWSAC has acquired 84% of their goal with minimal observed run entry at both AFK and WNH in recent days. Once brood is assured, recommendations will adjust accordingly to provide opportunity to harvest any surplus PWSAC fish by utilizing hatchery SHAs, THAs, and corresponding hatchery subdistricts as warranted.

Monday, August 24, 2020

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

The 2020 MBH sockeye salmon egg take began on Sunday, August 2, and reached 100% completion on Friday, August 21, with a total of 12.4 million sockeye salmon eggs collected.

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 23, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 519,242 fish, and broodstock escapement of as few as 270,000 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 1,033,350 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 23 was 4,501,195 fish. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 24 was 270,000 to 300,000 pink salmon, with no noticeable improvement in recent days. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at AFK is 363,000 pink salmon.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 23, PWSAC had collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,375,155 fish, and broodstock escapement of as few as 250,000 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 2,841,683 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 23 was 3,632,205 fish. The high tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 23 was 250,000 to 275,000 pink salmon. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at CCH is 357,000 pink salmon.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 23, PWSAC had collected 1,431,922 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,477,075 fish, along with broodstock collection of as few as 245,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 4,229,381 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 23 was 3,934,398 fish.

The 2020 WNH pink salmon egg take began on Friday, August 21. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 2.7% of the 148 million pink salmon egg goal. The morning WNH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 20 was as few as 210,000 pink salmon, including fish collected behind the WNH barrier net.

As per PWSAC’s permits and shared ancestral broodstock source, AFK pink salmon eggtake shortfalls can be mitigated for through additional egg takes at WNH. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in WNH hatchery subdistricts until hatchery broodstock is assured for both WNH and AFK. PWSAC’s broodstock goal at WNH is 283,000 pink salmon, although it will be working to build additional escapement to mitigate for a broodstock shortfall at AFK.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Sunday, August 23, PWSAC had collected approximately 2,657,558 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 5,446,856 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 8,104,414 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 23 was 12,067,797 fish.

In total, PWSAC needs just over 1 million pink salmon to complete egg takes, and currently PWSAC has acquired 76% of their goal with minimal observed run entry at both AFK and WNH in recent days. Once brood is assured, recommendations will adjust accordingly to provide opportunity to harvest any surplus PWSAC fish by utilizing hatchery SHAs, THAs, and corresponding hatchery subdistricts as warranted.

Thursday, August 20, 2020

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

The 2020 MBH sockeye salmon egg take began on Sunday, August 2. Through August 20, PWSAC has collected approximately 97% of the 12.4 million sockeye salmon egg goal and expects to reach its eggtake goal at MBH in the coming day or two.

Gulkana Hatchery:

The 2020 Gulkana II (GII) sockeye salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 4 and has concluded at 86% (1.5 million) complete towards the 1.75 million GII sockeye salmon egg goal. PWSAC is permitted to use eggs collected from the GI run to augment GII shortfalls. The Gulkana I (GI) egg take is not due to start until early September.

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 19, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 500,482 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 774,590 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 19 was 3,459,674 fish. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 20 was 240,000 to 280,000 pink salmon, with no noticeable improvement in several days. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at AFK is 363,000 pink salmon.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 19, PWSAC had collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,193,441 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 2,409,969 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 19 was 2,985,812 fish. The high tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 19 was 175,000 to 200,000 pink salmon. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at CCH is 357,000 pink salmon.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 19, PWSAC had collected 1,431,922 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,477,075 fish, along with broodstock collection of as many as 225,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 4,133,997 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 19 was 3,234,457 fish. The morning WNH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 20 was 40,000 pink salmon.

As per PWSAC’s permits and shared ancestral broodstock source, AFK pink salmon eggtake shortfalls can be mitigated for through additional egg takes at WNH. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in WNH hatchery subdistricts until hatchery broodstock is assured for both WNH and AFK. PWSAC’s broodstock goal at WNH is 283,000 pink salmon, although it will be working to build additional escapement to mitigate for a broodstock shortfall at AFK.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Wednesday, August 20, PWSAC had collected 2,117,558 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 5,170,998 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 7,288,556 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 19 was 9,679,914 fish.

In total, PWSAC needs just over 1 million pink salmon to complete egg takes, and currently PWSAC has acquired 71% of their goal with minimal observed run entry at both AFK and WNH in recent days. Once brood is assured, recommendations will adjust accordingly to provide opportunity to harvest any surplus PWSAC fish by utilizing hatchery SHAs, THAs, and corresponding hatchery subdistricts as warranted.

Monday, August 17, 2020

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

The 2020 MBH sockeye salmon egg take began on Sunday, August 2. Through August 16, PWSAC has collected approximately 80% of the 12.4 million sockeye salmon egg goal.

Gulkana Hatchery:

The 2020 Gulkana II (GII) sockeye salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 4. Through August 16, PWSAC has collected approximately 74% of the 1.75 million GII sockeye salmon egg goal. The Gulkana I (GI) egg take is not due to start until early September.

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

ADF&G otolith contribution estimates suggest that 190,895 AFK pink salmon were harvested in PWS on August 11, with another 171,316 fish harvested on August 13, and 127,262 on August 15.

As of Sunday, August 16, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 531,581 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 775,689 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 16 was 2,732,899 fish. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 13 was 240,000 to 280,000 pink salmon, with no noticeable improvement in recent days. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at AFK is 363,000 pink salmon.

The 2020 AFK Hatchery pink salmon return is performing well below forecast. Declining harvests combined with less than anticipated otolith contribution estimates and static hatchery escapement warrant a conservative approach going forward. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in AFK hatchery subdistricts until hatchery broodstock is assured and a harvestable surplus can be identified.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

ADF&G otolith contribution estimates suggest that 577,509 pink salmon were harvested in PWS on August 11, with another 470,065 fish harvested on August 13, and 295,470 on August 15.

As of Sunday, August 16, PWSAC had collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 1,845,753 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 2,062,281 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 16 was 2,370,341 fish. The high tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 17 was 90,000 to 120,000 pink salmon. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at CCH is 357,000 pink salmon.

The 2020 Cannery Creek Hatchery pink salmon return is performing below forecast. Declining harvests combined with less than anticipated otolith contribution estimates warrant a conservative approach going forward. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in CCH hatchery subdistricts until hatchery broodstock is assured and a harvestable surplus can be identified.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

ADF&G otolith contribution estimates suggest that 1,171,828 WNH pink salmon were harvested in PWS on August 11, with another 575,635 fish harvested on August 13, and 308,375 on August 15.

As of Sunday, August 16, PWSAC had collected 1,431,922 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,486,615 fish, along with broodstock collection of as many as 225,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 4,143,537 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 16 was 2,739,577 fish. The morning WNH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 16 was 15,000 pink salmon, with no noticeable improvement in recent days. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at WNH is 283,000 pink salmon.

As per PWSAC’s permits and shared ancestral broodstock source, AFK pink salmon eggtake shortfalls can be mitigated for through additional egg takes at WNH. In preparation for a potential broodstock shortfall at AFK, PWSAC will attempt to secure additional broodstock at WNH. PWSAC does not anticipate recommending a commercial fishery targeting PWSAC pink salmon in WNH hatchery subdistricts until hatchery broodstock is assured for both WNH and AFK, and a harvestable surplus can be identified.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Sunday, August 16, PWSAC had collected 2,117,558 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 4,863,949 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 6,981,507 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 16 was 7,842,817 fish.

In total, PWSAC needs just over 1 million pink salmon to complete egg takes, and currently PWSAC has acquired 60% of their goal with minimal observed run entry at both AFK and WNH in recent days. Once brood is assured, recommendations will adjust accordingly to provide opportunity to harvest any surplus PWSAC fish by utilizing hatchery SHAs, THAs, and corresponding hatchery subdistricts as warranted.

ADF&G sampling of the August 8 Northern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 65% CCH, 24% wild, 5% WNH and 5% SGH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the August 11 Northern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 58% CCH, 28% WNH, 12% wild and 2% AFK pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the August 13 Northern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 59% CCH, 28% WNH, 11% wild and 2% SGH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the August 15 Northern District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 57% CCH, 20% WNH, 14% wild, 4% AFK and 4% SGH pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the August 11 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 79% WNH, 14% wild and 7% CCH pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the August 11 Southwestern District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 38% wild, 29% WNH, 17% AFK and 16% CCH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the August 13 Southwestern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 31% wild, 29% CCH, 19% AFK, 18% WNH and 3% SGH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the August 15 Southwestern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 35% CCH, 30% WNH, 21% wild and 14% AFK pink salmon.

Thursday, August 13, 2020

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 12, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 716,846 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 960,954 fish. This estimate relies on AFK otolith contribution assumptions for the August 11 Southwestern District commercial CPF and will likely change as ADF&G otolith contributions become available. The anticipated cumulative return for August 12 was 1,756,606 fish. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 13 was 200,000 to 230,000 pink salmon. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at AFK is 363,000 pink salmon.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 12, PWSAC had collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 1,072,705 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 1,289,233 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 12 was 1,728,090 fish. The high tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 12 was 50,000 to 80,000 pink salmon. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at CCH is 357,000 pink salmon.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 12, PWSAC had collected 1,431,922 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 956,228 fish, along with broodstock collection of as many as 225,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 2,613,150 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 12 was 1,970,215 fish. The WNH HEEZ is currently open to the commercial CPF today, August 13. PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal at WNH is 283,000 pink salmon.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Wednesday, August 12, PWSAC had collected 2,117,558 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 2,745,779 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 4,863,337 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 12 was 5,454,911 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the August 5 Eastern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 78% wild, 20% SGH, 1% WNH and 1% CCH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the August 8 Eastern District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 89% wild, 10% SGH and 2% WNH pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the August 5 Northern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 39% CCH, 38% wild, 16% WNH, 6% SGH and 1% AFK pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the August 8 Northern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 51% CCH, 35% wild, 8% WNH and 6% SGH pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the August 5 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 79% WNH, 14% wild and 7% CCH pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the August 5 Northwestern District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 49% WNH, 46% wild, 2% CCH, 1% SGH and 1% AFK pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the August 5 Montague District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 46% wild, 21% CCH, 16% WNH, 11% SGH and 5% AFK pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the August 8 Montague District CPF result in a harvest composition of 55% wild, 17% CCH, 16% AFK, 10% WNH and 2% SGH pink salmon.

Monday, August 10, 2020

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

The 2020 MBH sockeye salmon egg take began on Sunday, August 2. Through August 9, PWSAC has collected approximately 26% of the 12.4 million sockeye salmon egg goal.

Gulkana Hatchery:

The 2020 Gulkana II (GII) sockeye salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 4. Through August 10, PWSAC has collected approximately 63% of the 1.75 million GII sockeye salmon egg goal. The Gulkana I (GI) egg take is not due to start until early September.

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC achieved the assigned pink salmon revenue goal on August 9.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 9, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 34,673 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 278,781 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 9 was 1,248,624 fish. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 10 was 150,000 to 170,000 pink salmon.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 9, PWSAC had collected 216,528 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 472,382 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 688,910 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 9 was 1,121,226 fish. The morning CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 10 was 15,000 to 20,000 pink salmon.

PWSAC harvested 33,745 pink salmon at CCH on August 9, with an average weight of 3.5 pounds per fish and 47% female. The anticipated female ratio at CCH on August 9 is 30.7%.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 9, PWSAC had collected 1,431,212 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 443,962 fish, along with broodstock collection of as many as 225,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 2,100,174 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 9 was 1,448,867 fish. The morning WNH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 10 was 110,000 pink salmon.

PWSAC harvested 216,175 pink salmon at WNH on August 9, with an average weight of 3.4 pounds and 54% female. The anticipated female ratio at WNH on August 9 is 39.9%. Through August 9, PWSAC estimates that it had collected as many as 225,000 pink salmon towards its 283,000 fish broodstock collection goal.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Sunday, August 9, PWSAC had collected 2,116,848 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 951,017 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 3,067,865 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 9 was 3,818,717 fish.

Thursday, August 06, 2020

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

The 2020 MBH sockeye salmon egg take began on Sunday, August 2. Through August 6, PWSAC has collected approximately 14% of the 12.4 million sockeye salmon egg goal.

Gulkana Hatchery:

The 2020 Gulkana II (GII) sockeye salmon egg take began on Tuesday, August 4. Through August 6, PWSAC has collected approximately 31% of the 1.75 million GII sockeye salmon egg goal. The Gulkana I (GI) egg take is not due to start until early September.

Pink Salmon Update

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 5, PWSAC had collected 244,108 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 17,835 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 261,943 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 5 was 653,290 fish. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 6 was 60,000 to 70,000 pink salmon.

PWSAC harvested 86,014 pink salmon at AFK on August 3 and 4, with an average weight of 3.5 pounds and female ratios ranging from 37–42% female. The anticipated female ratio at AFK on August 4 is 16.3%. Given poor run entry and poor fishery performance to date, and female ratios that we wouldn’t expect to see until August 11 and beyond, PWSAC has discontinued cost recovery harvests at AFK to build escapement and monitor fishery performance data.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 5, PWSAC had collected 92,959 pink salmon at CCH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 190,065 fish, the CCH pink salmon return totals 283,024 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 5 was 424,147 fish. The afternoon high tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 5 was 70,000 to 90,000 pink salmon.

PWSAC harvested 92,959 pink salmon at CCH on August 4, with an average weight of 3.28 pounds per fish and 26.2% female. The anticipated female ratio at CCH on August 4 is 24%.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, August 5, PWSAC had collected 866,942 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 345,192 fish, along with broodstock collection of as many as 120,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 1,332,134 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 5 was 797,990 fish. The morning WNH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 6 was 150,000 pink salmon.

PWSAC harvested 223,826 pink salmon at WNH on August 3 and 4, with an average weight ranging from 3.6 to 3.63 pounds and female ratios ranging from 41.6–51% female. The anticipated female ratio at WNH on August 4 is 29.3%. PWSAC’s historical data does not predict reaching 51% female until August 15. PWSAC’s anticipated brood collection for that date and associated female ratio is approximately 150,000 fish. PWSAC is conducting both broodstock collection and cost recovery fishing operations at WNH today, August 6.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Wednesday, August 5, PWSAC had collected 1,324,009 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 553,092 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 1,877,101 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 2 was 1,875,427 fish.

To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 71% of the assigned pink salmon revenue goal.

Monday, August 03, 2020

Pink Salmon Update

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 2, PWSAC had collected 156,830 pink salmon at AFK for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 9,983 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 166,813 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 2 was 353,861 fish.

PWSAC harvested 71,158 pink salmon at AFK on August 2. The average weight from the AFK sale on August 2 was 3.5 pounds per fish, with a female ratio of 33% female. The anticipated female ratio at AFK on August 2 is 14.7%. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 3 was 20,000 to 30,000 pink salmon. Cost recovery harvests are taking place at AFK today, August 3.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 2, the estimated commercial CPF catch is 90,983 CCH pink salmon. The anticipated cumulative return for August 2 was 118,457 fish. The midday high tide CCH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 2 was 15,000 to 20,000 pink salmon. Cost recovery harvests will commence at CCH as escapement warrants.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Sunday, August 2, PWSAC had collected 645,604 pink salmon at WNH for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 207,106 fish, along with broodstock collection of as many as 30,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 882,710 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 2 was 481,604 fish.

PWSAC harvested 209,606 pink salmon at WNH on August 2. The average weight from the WNH sale on August 2 was 3.4 pounds per fish, with an overall female ratio of 37% (600 fish sample), with one subsample (150 fish) of 58% female. The anticipated female ratio at WNH on August 2 is 27.8%. The morning WNH HEEZ estimate from hatchery staff on August 3 was 65,000 pink salmon. Cost recovery harvests are taking place at WNH today, August 3.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Sunday, August 2, PWSAC had collected 832,434 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 308,072 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 1,140,506 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for August 2 was 953,922 fish.

To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 46% of the assigned pink salmon revenue goal.

ADF&G sampling of the July 28 Northern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 41% SGH, 37% wild, 16% CCH and 6% WNH pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the July 13-15 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 94% wild, 5% WNH and 1% SGH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 16-19 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 85% wild, 10% WNH, 4% SGH and 1% CCH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 20-21 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 59% wild, 34% SGH, 6% WNH and 1% CCH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 23-24 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 39% SGH, 29% wild, 28% WNH and 3% CCH pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the July 16 Northwestern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 95% wild and 5% WNH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 19 Northwestern District CPF result in a harvest composition of 97% wild and 3% WNH pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the July 16-17 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 88% wild, 7% WNH and 5% SGH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 20-21 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 75% wild, 23% SGH and 2% WNH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 23-24 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 67% wild, 20% SGH, 11% WNH and 1% CCH pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the July 6-8 Montague District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 58% wild, 41% SGH and 1% AFK pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 20-22 Montague District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 87% wild and 13% AFK pink salmon.

Thursday, July 30, 2020

Pink Salmon Update

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 29, PWSAC had collected 52,718 pink salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 1,537 fish, the AFK pink salmon return totals 54,255 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for July 29 was 93,496 fish. The average weight from the sale on July 29 was 3.3 pounds per fish, with a female ratio of 19%. The anticipated female ratio at AFK on July 29 is 12.3%. The morning AFK HEEZ estimate from the hatchery staff was 15,000 to 20,000 pink salmon.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 29, the estimated commercial CPF catch is 7,557 CCH pink salmon. The anticipated cumulative return for July 29 was 8,366 fish. The morning CCH HEEZ estimate from the hatchery staff was 8,000 to 14,000 pink salmon.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 29, PWSAC had collected 259,305 pink salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 112,573 fish, along with broodstock collection of as many as 30,000 fish, the WNH pink salmon return totals 401,878 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for July 29 was 157,378 fish. The average weight from the sale on July 29 was 3.4 pounds per fish, with a female ratio of 27%. The anticipated female ratio at WNH on July 29 is 25.3%. The morning HEEZ estimate from the hatchery staff was 5,000 pink salmon.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Wednesday, July 29, PWSAC had collected 342,023 pink salmon for cost recovery and broodstock. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 121,667 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 463,690 fish. The anticipated cumulative return for July 29 was 259,240 fish.

To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 17% of the assigned pink salmon revenue goal.

Monday, July 27, 2020

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

The 2020 WNH chum salmon egg take began on July 6. PWSAC achieved the 153 million chum salmon egg take goal on July 25.

PWSAC concluded its 2020 chum salmon cost recovery fishing operations at WNH on July 24 with a harvest of 5,100 fish. With that, PWSAC reached approximately 73% of its aggregate WNH chum/MBH sockeye salmon revenue goal for the season.

Pink Salmon Update

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 26, PWSAC had collected 12,185 pink salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 1,537 fish, the AFK pink salmon harvest totals 13,722 fish. The anticipated cumulative harvest for July 26 was 42,198 fish. The average weight from the sale on July 25 was 3.7 pounds per fish, with a female ratio of 20%. The morning HEEZ estimate from the hatchery staff was 6,000 to 9,000 pink salmon.

Cannery Creek Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 26, the estimated commercial CPF catch is 447 CCH pink salmon. The anticipated cumulative harvest for July 26 was 0 fish.

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 26, PWSAC had collected 131,358 pink salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 38,262 fish, the WNH pink salmon harvest totals 169,620 fish. The anticipated cumulative harvest for July 26 was 73,952 fish. The average weight from the sale on July 26 was 3.6 pounds per fish, with a female ratio of 23%. The morning HEEZ estimate from the hatchery staff was 15,000 pink salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the July 23-24 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 39% SGH, 29% wild, 28% WNH and 3% CCH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 23-24 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 67% wild, 20% SGH, 11% WNH and 1% CCH pink salmon.

PWSAC Pink Salmon – AFK, CCH, WNH Combined:

As of Sunday, July 26, PWSAC had collected 143,543 pink salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 40,246 fish, the PWSAC pink salmon return totals 183,789 fish. The anticipated cumulative run entry for July 26 was 116,150 fish.

To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 7% of the assigned pink salmon revenue goal.

Thursday, July 23, 2020

PWSAC COST RECOVERY UPDATE

PWSAC has elected to implement its WNH chum/MBH sockeye salmon aggregate management strategy to achieve the assigned revenue goal of approximately $5.8 million. PWSAC is approximately 72% complete towards this goal through July 22.

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 22, PWSAC had collected 614,851 chum salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 287,988 WNH chum salmon, along with broodstock collection of as many as 228,500 fish, the WNH chum salmon run totals 1,131,339 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 22 was 2.52 million fish.

The 2020 WNH chum salmon egg take began on Monday, July 6. Through July 22, PWSAC has collected approximately 83% of the 153 million chum salmon egg goal.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 22, an estimated 193,418 AFK chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 22 was 495,110 fish.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

As of Wednesday, July 22, an estimated 586,027 Port Chalmers chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 22 was 808,244 fish.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 22, PWSAC had collected 236,983 sockeye salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 472,343 MBH sockeye salmon, and another 8,940 fish for broodstock, the MBH sockeye salmon run totals 718,266 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 22 was 1.06 million fish.

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC’s combined preseason forecast for AFK, CCH, and WNH is 14.6 million pink salmon with a broodstock goal of 1,003,000 fish.

Pink salmon have been observed and harvested in the vicinity of WNH and AFK in recent days. During chum salmon cost recovery harvest operations in the WNH SHA on Friday, July 17, Monday, July 20 and Wednesday, July 22, the cost recovery harvest was comprised of 1%, 12% and 17% pink salmon, respectively. ADF&G otolith contribution estimates from recent harvests result in relatively few PWSAC pink salmon harvested in the commercial common property fisheries, which is to be expected for the date. PWSAC anticipates that pink salmon cost recovery harvests will commence as run entry and hatchery escapement warrants, and likely within the coming days.

ADF&G sampling of the July 16–July 19 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 85% wild, 10% WNH, 4% SGH and 1% CCH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 20–July 22 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 68% wild, 25% SGH and 7% WNH pink salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 20–July 21 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of 75% wild, 23% SGH and 2% WNH pink salmon.

Monday, July 20, 2020

PWSAC COST RECOVERY UPDATE

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 19, PWSAC had collected 517,850 chum salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 286,190 WNH chum salmon, along with broodstock collection of as many as 228,500 fish, the WNH chum salmon run totals 1,032,866 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 19 was 2.48 million fish.

Thanks to the continued assistance of cost recovery harvest vessels, WNH reached its broodstock collection goal at WNH on Friday, July 17, and resumed cost recovery fishing operations that day. Chum salmon cost recovery harvests continued at WNH again today. The 2020 WNH chum salmon egg take began on Monday, July 6. Through July 19, PWSAC has collected approximately 71% of the 153 million chum salmon egg goal.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 19, approximately 194,522 AFK chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 19 was 492,032 fish.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

As of Sunday, July 19, approximately 580,633 Port Chalmers chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 19 was 803,419 fish.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 19, PWSAC had collected 236,983 sockeye salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 489,965 MBH sockeye salmon, and another 8,940 fish for broodstock, the MBH sockeye salmon run totals 735,888 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 19 was 1.05 million fish.

Pink Salmon Update

PWSAC’s combined preseason forecast for AFK, CCH, and WNH is 14.6 million pink salmon with a broodstock goal of 1,003,000 fish.

Pink salmon have been observed and harvested in the vicinity of WNH and AFK in recent days. During chum salmon cost recovery harvest operations in the WNH SHA on Friday, July 17, the cost recovery harvest was comprised of 99% chum salmon. PWSAC anticipates that pink salmon cost recovery harvests will commence as run entry and hatchery escapement warrants, and likely within the coming week.

Preliminary otolith contribution estimates from the 14-hour fishing period on Thursday, July 16 in the Northwestern District were 98% wild and 2% WNH pink salmon. Preliminary otolith contribution estimates from the 36-hour fishing period on Thursday, July 16 in the Eshamy District were 88% wild, 7% WNH, and 5% SGH pink salmon.

Thursday, July 16, 2020

PWSAC COST RECOVERY UPDATE

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 15, PWSAC had collected 479,766 chum salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 237,623 fish, along with broodstock collection of 153,500 fish, the chum salmon run totals 870,889 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 15 was 2.4 million fish.

The 2020 WNH chum salmon egg take began on Monday, July 6. To date (including July 16), PWSAC has collected approximately 50% of the 153 million chum salmon egg goal. Cost recovery fishing operations at WNH are currently on hold to allow for additional broodstock collection. Through July 15, PWSAC had collected as many as 153,500 chum salmon for broodstock at WNH. The anticipated WNH chum salmon broodstock collection for July 15 is 188,855 fish, and PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal for 2020 is 201,000 chum salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the July 2–July 4 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 98% WNH and 2% AFK chum salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 6–July 8 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 88% WNH and 12% wild chum salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 9–July 12 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 99% WNH and 1% wild chum salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the July 9–July 12 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of 79% WNH, 16% wild and 5% AFK chum salmon.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 15, approximately 187,097 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 15 was 478,276 fish.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

As of Wednesday, July 15, approximately 567,239 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 15 was 789,580 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 20–June 21 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of 93% Port Chalmers, 6% WNH and 1% wild chum salmon. ADF&G sampling of the June 27–June 28 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 86% Port Chalmers, 6% wild, 4% WNH and 3% AFK chum salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 11–July 12 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of 98% Port Chalmers and 2% WNH chum salmon.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 15, PWSAC had collected 236,983 sockeye salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 432,186 fish, and another 8,940 fish for broodstock, the MBH sockeye salmon run totals 678,109 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 15 was 1.03 million fish.

Monday, July 13, 2020

PWSAC COST RECOVERY UPDATE

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 12, PWSAC had collected 479,766 chum salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 240,524 fish, along with broodstock collection of 153,500 fish, the chum salmon run totals 873,790 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 12 was 2.31 million fish.

The 2020 WNH chum salmon egg take began on Monday, July 6. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 27% of the 153 million chum salmon egg goal. Cost recovery fishing operations at WNH are currently on hold to allow for additional broodstock collection. Through July 12, PWSAC had collected as many as 153,500 chum salmon for broodstock at WNH. The anticipated WNH chum salmon broodstock collection for July 12 is 182,119 fish, and PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal for 2020 is 201,000 chum salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the June 29–July 1 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 94% WNH, 2% wild, 2% Port Chalmers and 2% AFK chum salmon.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 12, approximately 188,129 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 12 was 465,212 fish.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

As of Sunday, July 12, approximately 569,642 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 12 was 776,142 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 29–July 1 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of 91% Port Chalmers, 6% AFK and 3% WNH chum salmon.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 12, PWSAC had collected 236,983 sockeye salmon for cost recovery. PWSAC concluded its 2020 cost recovery fishing operations at MBH with a harvest of 12,842 sockeye salmon on July 9. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 466,908 fish, and another 8,940 fish for broodstock, the MBH sockeye salmon run totals 712,831 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 12 was 1.01 million fish.

Thursday, July 09, 2020

PWSAC COST RECOVERY UPDATE

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 8, PWSAC had collected 479,766 chum salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 221,572 fish, along with broodstock collection of 142,500 fish, the chum salmon run totals 843,838 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 8 was 2.13 million fish.

The 2020 WNH chum salmon egg take began on Monday, July 6. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 9.5% of the 153 million chum salmon egg goal. Cost recovery fishing operations at WNH are currently on hold to allow for additional broodstock collection. Through July 8, PWSAC had collected as many as 142,500 chum salmon for broodstock at WNH. The anticipated WNH chum salmon broodstock collection for July 8 is 167,518 fish, and PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal for 2020 is 201,000 chum salmon.

To date, the WNH chum salmon return has been performing well below forecast. PWSAC is grateful for the extraordinary efforts of participating cost recovery processors and harvest vessels to ensure that PWSAC reaches its remaining broodstock goal while maximizing cost recovery harvests. PWSAC will continue to manage WNH hatchery subdistricts conservatively to ensure that remaining broodstock and cost recovery goals are met.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 8, approximately 177,215 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 8 was 438,205 fish.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

As of Wednesday, July 8, approximately 562,167 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 8 was 741,982 fish.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 8, PWSAC had collected 224,141 sockeye salmon for cost recovery. MBH sockeye salmon cost recovery harvests in recent days totaled 12,223 fish on 7/6; 14,979 fish on 7/7; and, 4,182 fish on 7/8. Cost recovery fishing continued at MBH today. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 426,178 fish, and another 8,940 fish for broodstock, the MBH sockeye salmon run totals 659,259 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 8 was 956,657 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 29–July 1 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 44% MBH and 56% wild sockeye salmon. ADF&G sampling of the July 2 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of 99% MBH and 1% wild sockeye salmon.

Monday, July 06, 2020

PWSAC COST RECOVERY UPDATE

PWSAC has elected to implement its WNH chum/MBH sockeye salmon aggregate management strategy to achieve the assigned revenue goal of approximately $5.8 million. To date, the outstanding balance of the assigned revenue goal is approximately $2.2 million, or approximately 61% complete towards this goal through July 5. PWSAC will harvest both WNH chum and MBH sockeye salmon to achieve the assigned revenue goal from the hatchery specific Special Harvest Areas. The cost recovery harvest amount from each run is open-ended (up to achieving the assigned revenue goal) and will be based on daily hatchery escapement availability. PWSAC intends to conduct its harvest from both Special Harvest Areas as rapidly as possible to minimize the impact on both run-specific commercial fisheries.

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 5, PWSAC had collected 479,766 chum salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 199,025 fish, along with broodstock collection of 122,500 fish, the chum salmon run totals 801,291 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 5 was 1.93 million fish.

WNH chum salmon cost recovery harvests in recent days totaled 19,261 fish on July 4. Cost recovery fishing is currently on hold to allow for additional escapement for broodstock. The 2020 WNH chum salmon egg take began this morning; Monday, July 6.

Hatchery staff have worked diligently with the cost recovery harvest vessels since June 14 to proactively place as many as 122,500 chum salmon (July 5 estimate) behind the WNH barrier seine. PWSAC will continue these broodstock collection efforts as necessary and possible. The anticipated WNH chum salmon broodstock collection for July 5 is 151,848 fish, and PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal for 2020 is 201,000 chum salmon.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 5, approximately 173,656 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 5 was 402,943 fish.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

As of Sunday, July 5, approximately 529,735 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 5 was 690,907 fish.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

As of Sunday, July 5, PWSAC had collected 192,757 sockeye salmon for cost recovery. MBH sockeye salmon cost recovery harvests in recent days totaled 15,936 fish on 7/2; 6,700 fish on 7/3; and, 4,181 fish on 7/5. Cost recovery fishing continues at MBH today. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 438,462 fish, and another 6,580 fish for broodstock, the MBH sockeye salmon run totals 637,799 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 5 was 878,004 fish.

Thursday, July 02, 2020

PWSAC COST RECOVERY UPDATE

PWSAC has elected to implement its WNH chum/MBH sockeye salmon aggregate management strategy to achieve the assigned revenue goal of approximately $5.8 million. To date, the outstanding balance of the assigned revenue goal is approximately $2.6 million, or approximately 55% complete towards this goal through July 1. PWSAC will harvest both WNH chum and MBH sockeye salmon to achieve the assigned revenue goal from the hatchery specific Special Harvest Areas. The cost recovery harvest amount from each run is open-ended (up to achieving the assigned revenue goal) and will be based on daily hatchery escapement availability. PWSAC intends to conduct its harvest from both Special Harvest Areas as rapidly as possible to minimize the impact on both run-specific commercial fisheries.

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 1, PWSAC had collected 435,803 chum salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 184,262 fish, along with broodstock collection of 99,500 fish, the chum salmon run totals 719,565 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 1 was 1.68 million fish.

WNH chum salmon cost recovery harvests in recent days totaled 25,945 fish on 6/29; 56,575 fish on 6/30; and, 48,637 fish on 7/1. Cost recovery fishing is taking place at WNH today and will continue as escapement and run entry warrants.

Unfortunately, PWSAC is faced with an extraordinary situation at WNH in 2020 where very few broodstock fish have returned to inner Lake Bay than is typical or expected. This has had implications for both broodstock collection and cost recovery fishing operations, and hatchery staff have worked diligently with the cost recovery harvest vessels since June 14 to proactively place as many as 99,500 chum salmon (July 1 estimate) behind the WNH barrier seine while maintaining consistent cost recovery fishing operations. However, PWSAC has observed significant sea lion activity inside its brood enclosure in 2020 and expects a significant loss of broodstock fish to sea lion predation. PWSAC will continue these broodstock collection efforts as necessary and possible. The anticipated WNH chum salmon broodstock collection for July 1 is 132,236 fish, and PWSAC’s ultimate broodstock goal for 2020 is 201,000 chum salmon.

ADF&G sampling of the June 25-27 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 96% WNH, 2% wild, 1% Port Chalmers and 1% AFK chum salmon. ADF&G sampling of the June 25-26 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 64% WNH, 25% AFK and 11% wild chum salmon.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 1, approximately 156,670 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 1 was 353,888 fish.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

As of Wednesday, July 1, approximately 493,875 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for June 28 was 609,401 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 25-26 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 96% Port Chalmers, 3% wild and 1% AFK chum salmon. ADF&G sampling of the June 27-28 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 87% Port Chalmers, 7% wild, 3% AFK and 3% WNH chum salmon.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, July 1, PWSAC had collected 165,940 sockeye salmon for cost recovery. MBH sockeye salmon cost recovery harvests in recent days totaled 37,608 fish on 6/29; 19,779 fish on 6/30; and, 32,906 fish on 7/1. Cost recovery fishing continues at MBH today. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 369,757 fish, and another 5,500 fish for broodstock, the MBH sockeye salmon run totals 541,197 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for July 1 was 723,883 fish.

Monday, June 29, 2020

PWSAC COST RECOVERY UPDATE

PWSAC has elected to implement its WNH chum/MBH sockeye salmon aggregate management strategy to achieve the assigned revenue goal of approximately $5.8 million. To date, the outstanding balance of the assigned revenue goal is approximately $3.7 million, or approximately 36% complete towards this goal through June 28. PWSAC will harvest both WNH chum and MBH sockeye salmon to achieve the assigned revenue goal from the hatchery specific Special Harvest Areas. The cost recovery harvest amount from each run is open-ended (up to achieving the assigned revenue goal) and will be based on daily hatchery escapement availability. PWSAC intends to conduct its harvest from both Special Harvest Areas as rapidly as possible to minimize the impact on both run-specific commercial fisheries.

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Sunday, June 28, PWSAC had collected 295,439 chum salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 165,891 fish, along with broodstock collection of 77,500 fish, the chum salmon run totals 538,830 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for June 28 was 1.49 million fish.

Cost recovery fishing progress picked up considerably over the weekend. WNH chum salmon cost recovery harvests in recent days totaled 26,036 fish on 6/25; 94,393 fish on 6/26; 37,098 fish on 6/27; and, 68,909 fish on 6/28. Cost recovery fishing will continue as escapement and run entry warrants. Plant samples from cost recovery fish harvested on June 26 averaged 6.84 pounds and ranged from 36% to 60% female. Plant samples from cost recovery fish harvested on June 27 averaged 6.4 pounds and ranged from 47% to 55% female. For June 27, PWSAC would expect a female ratio at WNH of 47%.

Hatchery staff have worked with the cost recovery harvest vessels since June 14 to place approximately 77,500 chum salmon behind the WNH barrier seine. PWSAC will continue these broodstock collection efforts as necessary and possible. The anticipated WNH chum salmon broodstock collection for June 28 is 117,176 fish.

To date, the WNH chum salmon return has been performing well below forecast. PWSAC will continue to manage WNH hatchery subdistricts conservatively to ensure that remaining broodstock and cost recovery goals are met.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Sunday, June 28, approximately 139,132 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for June 28 was 315,924 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 18-24 Southwestern District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 84% AFK, 7% WNH, 6% Port Chalmers and 3% wild chum salmon.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

As of Sunday, June 28, approximately 443,754 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative total return for June 28 was 537,525 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 18-24 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 95% Port Chalmers, 3% wild and just over 1% AFK chum salmon.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

As of Sunday, June 28, PWSAC had collected 70,913 sockeye salmon for cost recovery, with approximately 26,087 fish harvested on Sunday, June 28. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 365,992 fish, and another 5,500 fish for broodstock, the sockeye salmon run totals 442,405 fish. The anticipated cumulative total return for June 28 was 571,789 fish. Cost recovery fishing continues at MBH today.

Thursday, June 25, 2020

PWSAC COST RECOVERY UPDATE

PWSAC has elected to implement its WNH chum/MBH sockeye salmon aggregate management strategy to achieve the assigned revenue goal of approximately $5.8 million. To date, the outstanding balance of the assigned revenue goal is approximately $5.3 million, or approximately 8% complete towards this goal through June 24. PWSAC will harvest both WNH chum and MBH sockeye salmon to achieve the assigned revenue goal from the hatchery specific Special Harvest Areas. The cost recovery harvest amount from each run is open-ended (up to achieving the assigned revenue goal) and will be based on daily hatchery escapement availability. PWSAC intends to conduct its harvest from both Special Harvest Areas as rapidly as possible to minimize the impact on both run-specific commercial fisheries.

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, June 24, PWSAC had collected 69,003 chum salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 125,099 fish the chum salmon run totals 194,102 fish. The anticipated cumulative harvest for June 24 was 1.12 million fish.

Hatchery staff have worked with the cost recovery harvest vessels in the past week to place approximately 60,000 chum salmon behind the WNH barrier seine. PWSAC will continue these broodstock collection efforts as necessary and possible. The anticipated WNH chum salmon broodstock collection for June 24 is 95,574 fish.

WNH cost recovery operations resumed on a limited basis on June 23 resulting in the harvest of an estimated 25,525 chum salmon averaging 8.14 pounds per fish and 47.6% female (ADF&G sampling, 361 fish sample). The anticipated female ratio for June 23 is 43.7%. Cost recovery fishing resumed today, June 25, and will continue as escapement and run entry warrants.

ADF&G reports an age composition summary for PWSAC’s June 23 WNH cost recovery chum salmon of approximately 16.9% Age-3, 30.4% Age-4, 52.5% Age-5, and 0.3% Age-6. PWSAC’s projected age composition for the 2020 WNH chum salmon run is 3.9% Age-3 (101,000 fish forecast), 51.5% Age-4 (1,313,000), 44.3% Age-5 (1,131,000), and 0.3% Age-6 (8,000).

ADF&G sampling of the June 18/19 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 91% WNH, 6% wild, 2% AFK and 1% Port Chalmers chum salmon.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, June 24, approximately 105,525 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative harvest for June 24 was 264,385 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 18/20 Southwestern District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 80% AFK, 10% WNH, 7% Port Chalmers and 2% wild chum salmon.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

As of Wednesday, June 24, approximately 313,889 chum salmon have been harvested by the commercial CPF. The anticipated cumulative harvest for June 21 was 437,820 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 18/19 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 97% Port Chalmers, 2% WNH and 1% AFK chum salmon. ADF&G sampling of the June 20/21 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 93% Port Chalmers, 6% WNH and 1% wild chum salmon.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

As of Wednesday, June 24, PWSAC had collected 19,386 sockeye salmon for cost recovery. Combined with an estimated commercial CPF catch of 250,824 fish the sockeye salmon run totals 270,210 fish. The anticipated cumulative harvest for June 24 was 390,252 fish. Cost recovery fishing continued at MBH today, with updates posted to PWSAC’s Facebook page tomorrow.

ADF&G sampling of the June 18/19 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 97% MBH and 3% wild sockeye salmon. ADF&G sampling of the June 15/16 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of 96% MBH and 4% wild sockeye salmon. ADF&G sampling of the June 18/19 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of 97% MBH and 3% wild sockeye salmon. ADF&G sampling of the June 22/23 Eshamy District CPF result in a harvest composition of 100% MBH sockeye salmon.

Monday, June 22, 2020

PWSAC COST RECOVERY UPDATE

PWSAC has elected to implement its WNH chum/MBH sockeye salmon aggregate management strategy to achieve the assigned revenue goal of approximately $5.8 million. To date, the outstanding balance of the assigned revenue goal is approximately $5.5 million. PWSAC will harvest both WNH chum and MBH sockeye salmon to achieve the assigned revenue goal from the hatchery specific Special Harvest Areas. The cost recovery harvest amount from each run is open-ended (up to achieving the assigned revenue goal) and will be based on daily hatchery escapement availability. PWSAC intends to conduct its harvest from both Special Harvest Areas as rapidly as possible to minimize the impact on both run-specific commercial fisheries.

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for WNH is 2.55 million chum salmon with a cumulative escapement goal of approximately 1.26 million fish for broodstock and cost recovery. The WNH chum salmon cost recovery program began on Monday, June 8. PWSAC conducted a test set at WNH yesterday, June 21, to gauge abundance in the vicinity of WNH, and to collect information pertinent to broodstock management. These efforts resulted in the harvest of 6,994 fish at an average weight of 8.15 pounds per fish and 38% female. To date, PWSAC has collected less than 6% of the assigned chum salmon revenue goal. PWSAC will continue cost recovery fishing at WNH as escapement and run entry warrants.

Hatchery staff have identified a large school of fish staging to the east of the hatchery and have been working with the cost recovery harvest vessel in recent days to place approximately 40,000 chum salmon behind the WNH barrier seine. The remainder of the school is estimated to contain as many as 120,000 fish. PWSAC’s outstanding cost recovery and broodstock goal is approximately 1.17 million fish. PWSAC will continue these broodstock collection efforts as necessary and possible. The anticipated WNH chum salmon broodstock collection for June 22 is 84,379 fish.

The estimated total WNH chum salmon return (including CPF harvest, cost recovery harvest, brood) is approximately 187,000 fish through June 21. The anticipated WNH chum salmon cumulative return for June 21 was 983,000 fish.

To date, the WNH chum salmon return has been performing at historically poor levels. Through June 21, the cumulative combined commercial common property and cost recovery harvest in Coghill District is the smallest since 1992. PWSAC will continue to manage WNH hatchery subdistricts conservatively to ensure that remaining broodstock and cost recovery goals are met.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for AFK is 500,000 chum salmon. The estimated total AFK chum salmon return is approximately 63,000 fish through June 21. The anticipated AFK chum salmon cumulative return for June 21 was 226,000 fish.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for Port Chalmers is 810,000 chum salmon. The estimated total Port Chalmers chum salmon return is approximately 250,000 fish through June 21. The anticipated Port Chalmers chum salmon cumulative return for June 21 was 360,000 fish.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for MBH is 1.061 million sockeye salmon with a cumulative preseason escapement goal of approximately 55,000 fish for broodstock and cost recovery. The MBH sockeye salmon cost recovery program began on June 18. To date, PWSAC has collected approximately 19% of the preseason sockeye salmon revenue goal. PWSAC will continue cost recovery fishing at MBH as escapement and run entry warrants.

The estimated total MBH sockeye salmon return is approximately 188,000 fish through June 21. The anticipated MBH sockeye salmon cumulative return for June 21 was 264,000 fish.

Thursday, June 18, 2020

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

Chum salmon run entry at WNH in recent days has been slow, leading PWSAC to pause cost recovery operations on Friday, June 12. PWSAC will continue cost recovery fishing as escapement and run entry warrants.

Hatchery staff have worked with the cost recovery harvest vessel in recent days to place approximately 8,000 chum salmon behind the WNH barrier seine. PWSAC will continue these broodstock collection efforts as necessary and possible. The anticipated WNH chum salmon broodstock collection for June 18 is 60,696 fish.

The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Coghill District CPF harvest of 55,291 chum salmon through June 17. ADF&G otolith contributions result in an estimated 121,949 WNH chum salmon harvested in PWS (CPF plus cost recovery) through June 17. The anticipated WNH chum salmon cumulative harvest for June 17 was 670,000 fish.

To date, the WNH chum salmon return has been performing at historically poor levels. Through June 17, the cumulative combined commercial common property and cost recovery harvest in Coghill District is the smallest since 1995. PWSAC will continue to manage WNH hatchery subdistricts conservatively to ensure that remaining broodstock and cost recovery goals are met. PWSAC needs an additional 1.14 million chum salmon to meet its remaining goals.

ADF&G reports an age composition summary for Coghill district chum salmon harvested in period 5 (June 15/June 16) of 8.70% Age-3, 28.26% Age-4, 61.96% Age-5, and 1.09% Age-6. PWSAC’s projected age composition for the 2020 WNH chum salmon run is 3.9% Age-3 (101,000 fish), 51.5% Age-4 (1,313,000), 44.3% Age-5 (1,131,000), and 0.3% Age-6 (8,000).

ADF&G sampling of the June 15/16 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 85% WNH, 9% wild, 4% AFK and 2% Port Chalmers chum salmon.

Armin F Koernig Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for AFK is 500,000 chum salmon. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Southwestern District harvest of 54,745 chum salmon through June 17. ADF&G otolith contributions result in an estimated 29,865 AFK chum salmon harvested in PWS through June 17. The anticipated AFK chum salmon cumulative harvest for June 17 was 167,134 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 15/17 Southwestern District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 66% AFK, 6% WNH, 27% Port Chalmers and 2% wild chum salmon.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for Port Chalmers is 810,000 chum salmon. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Port Chalmers Subdistrict harvest of 154,381 chum salmon through June 17. ADF&G otolith contributions result in an estimated 130,311 Port Chalmers chum salmon harvested in PWS through June 17. The anticipated Port Chalmers chum salmon cumulative harvest for June 17 was 254,153 fish.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for MBH is 1.061 million sockeye salmon with a cumulative escapement goal of approximately 55,000 fish for broodstock and cost recovery. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Eshamy District harvest of 103,184 sockeye salmon through June 17. ADF&G otolith contributions result in an estimated 102,050 MBH sockeye salmon harvested in PWS through June 17. The anticipated MBH sockeye salmon cumulative harvest for June 17 was 128,286 fish. The MBH sockeye salmon cost recovery program began today, harvest updates will be posted to PWSAC’s Facebook page tomorrow.

ADF&G sampling of the June 15/16 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 94% MBH and 6% wild sockeye salmon.

Monday, June 15, 2020

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

Chum salmon run entry at WNH in recent days has been slow, leading PWSAC to pause cost recovery operations on Friday, June 12. In an effort to gauge run entry and collect fishery performance data, WNH cost recovery operations resumed on a limited basis on July 14 resulting in the harvest of an estimated 5,861 chum salmon averaging 8.7 pounds per fish and ranging from 22% to 36% female. The anticipated female ratio for June 14 is 33.1%. PWSAC will continue cost recovery fishing as escapement and run entry warrants.

Hatchery staff estimated 2,000 chum salmon in the WNH HEEZ this morning and worked with the cost recovery harvest vessel to place approximately 3,500 chum salmon behind the WNH barrier seine. PWSAC will continue these broodstock collection efforts as necessary and possible. The anticipated WNH chum salmon broodstock collection for June 15 is 36,000 fish.

The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Coghill District CPF harvest of 42,266 chum salmon through June 12. ADF&G otolith contributions result in an estimated 102,787 WNH chum salmon harvested in PWS (CPF plus cost recovery) through June 14. The anticipated WNH chum salmon cumulative harvest for June 14 was 426,000 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 11/12 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 99% WNH and 1% wild chum salmon.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for AFK is 500,000 chum salmon. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Southwestern District harvest of 35,826 chum salmon through June 13. ADF&G otolith contributions result in an estimated 29,462 AFK chum salmon harvested in PWS through June 14. The anticipated AFK chum salmon cumulative harvest for June 14 was 88,000 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 8/9 Southwestern District CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 78% AFK, 13% WNH, 4% Port Chalmers and 4% wild chum salmon.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for Port Chalmers is 810,000 chum salmon. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Port Chalmers Subdistrict harvest of 132,999 chum salmon through June 14. ADF&G otolith contributions result in an estimated 122,367 Port Chalmers chum salmon harvested in PWS through June 14. The anticipated Port Chalmers chum salmon cumulative harvest for June 14 was 173,000 fish.

ADF&G sampling of the June 8–10 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 88% Port Chalmers, 7% WNH, 4% wild and 1% AFK chum salmon. ADF&G sampling of the June 13/14 Port Chalmers Subdistrict CPF result in a harvest composition of approximately 93% Port Chalmers, 4% WNH and 3% wild chum salmon.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for MBH is 1.061 million sockeye salmon with a cumulative escapement goal of approximately 55,000 fish for broodstock and cost recovery. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Eshamy District harvest of 41,555 sockeye salmon through June 12. ADF&G otolith contributions result in an estimated 39,000 MBH sockeye salmon harvested in PWS through June 12. The anticipated MBH sockeye salmon cumulative harvest for June 12 was 43,000 fish.

Thursday, June 11, 2020

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for WNH is 2.55 million chum salmon with a cumulative escapement goal of approximately 1.26 million fish for broodstock and cost recovery. The WNH chum salmon cost recovery program began on Monday, June 8, and resulted in the harvest of just over 15,000 chum salmon on that date. Run entry in recent days has been slow, resulting in zero cost recovery harvest on Tuesday, June 9, and approximately 8,578 fish on Wednesday, June 10. Sampling of June 10 cost recovery harvest resulted in an average weight of 8.98 pounds and 36% female. Cost recovery harvest continues on June 11, with an update to be provided via PWSAC’s Facebook page on June 12. Hatchery staff estimated 2,000 chum salmon in the WNH HEEZ this morning. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Coghill District CPF harvest of 31,290 chum salmon through June 10. This is less than expected for the date (average cumulative CPF harvest of 233,126 chum salmon for the years 2000–2019), and slightly less than last year’s cumulative CPF harvest of approximately 35,000 chum salmon through the same date. Additional WNH-specific run performance data will be provided in PWSAC’s next update on Monday.

ADF&G reports an age composition summary for Coghill district chum salmon harvested in period 3 (June 8/June 9) of 1.85% Age-3, 15.08% Age-4, 82.46% Age-5, and 0.62% Age-6. PWSAC’s projected age composition for the 2020 WNH chum salmon run is 3.9% Age-3 (101,000 fish), 51.5% Age-4 (1,313,000), 44.3% Age-5 (1,131,000), and 0.3% Age-6 (8,000).

ADF&G sampling of the June 4/5 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 96% WNH and 4% AFK chum salmon. ADF&G sampling of the June 8/9 Coghill District CPF result in a harvest composition of 99% WNH and 1% wild chum salmon.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for AFK is 500,000 chum salmon. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Southwestern District harvest of 18,553 chum salmon through June 10.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for Port Chalmers is 810,000 chum salmon. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Port Chalmers Subdistrict harvest of 65,587 chum salmon through June 10. This is above average for the date (average cumulative CPF harvest of 56,430 chum salmon for the years 2000–2019), and greater than last year’s cumulative CPF harvest of 36,072 chum salmon through the same date.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

Monday, June 8, 2020

Chum Salmon Update

Wally Noerenberg Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for WNH is 2.55 million chum salmon with a cumulative escapement goal of approximately 1.26 million fish for broodstock and cost recovery. The chum salmon cost recovery program began this morning and is expected to continue tomorrow. Hatchery staff estimated 10,000 chum salmon in the WNH HEEZ this morning. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Coghill District harvest of 16,842 chum salmon through June 7.

Armin F. Koernig Hatchery:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for AFK is 500,000 chum salmon. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Southwestern District harvest of 13,000 chum salmon through June 7.

Port Chalmers Remote Release:

PWSAC’s preseason forecast for Port Chalmers is 810,000 chum salmon. The commercial CPF fishery began on June 1, with an estimated Port Chalmers Subdistrict harvest of 31,712 chum salmon through June 7.

Sockeye Salmon Update

Main Bay Hatchery:

2020 PWSAC Hatchery Return Forecast

Geoff Clark to lead PWSAC as Interim General Manager